Main article: Fifth-generation Ford Mustang
2005-2009 Ford Mustang GT C/S convertibleAt the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Ford introduced a completely redesigned Mustang, codenamed "S-197," that was based on an all-new D2C platform for the 2005 model year. Developed under the direction of Chief Engineer Hau Thai-Tang and exterior styling designer Sid Ramnarace,[32] the fifth-generation Mustang's styling echoes the fastback Mustangs of the late 1960s. Ford's senior vice president of design, J Mays, called it "retro-futurism."
The fifth-generation Mustang is manufactured at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock, Michigan. The base model is powered by a 210 hp (157 kW) cast-iron block 4.0 L SOHC V6, which replaces the 3.8 L pushrod V6 used previously. The Mustang GT features an aluminum block 4.6 L SOHC 3-valve Modular V8 with variable camshaft timing (VCT) that produces 300 hp (224 kW). The 2005 Mustang GT has an approximate weight to power ratio of 11.5 lb (5.2 kg)/bhp. The base Mustang comes with a standard Tremec T-5 5-speed manual transmission while Ford's own 5R55S 5-speed automatic, a Mustang first, is optional. Though the Mustang GT features the same automatic transmission as the V6 model, the Tremec T-5 manual is substituted with the heavier duty Tremec TR-3650 5-speed manual transmission to better handle the GT's extra power.[33]
Ford announced in July 2007 that all 2008 Mustangs would have seats containing material derived from soy beans,[34] harking back to some of Henry Ford's ideals.
A new option for the 2009 Mustang was the glass roof. This $1,995 option is in effect a full roof sunroof that splits the difference in price and purpose of the coupe and convertible models. [35]
For 2010, Ford unveiled a redesigned Mustang prior to the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The 2010 Mustang remains on the D2C platform and mostly retains the previous-year's drivetrain options. The Mustang received a thoroughly revised exterior, with only the roof panel being retained, that is sculpted for a leaner, more muscular appearance and better aerodynamic performance (coefficient of drag has been reduced by 4% on V6 models and 7% on GT models [36]).
The V6 for base Mustangs remains unchanged, while the Mustang GT's 4.6 L V8 has been revised to specifications similar to that of the 2008-2009 Mustang Bullitt's 4.6 L V8, resulting in 315 hp (235 kW) at 6000 rpm and 325 lb·ft (441 N·m) of torque at 4250 rpm.[37] Other mechanical features for the 2010 Mustang include new spring rates and dampers to improve ride quality and control, standard traction control system and stability control system on all models, and new wheel sizes. For the Mustang GT, two performance packages were made available. Other new features and options for the 2010 Mustang include Ford SYNC, dual-zone automatic climate control, an updated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link, a capless fuel filler, and a reverse camera system to aid in backing up. Note that SYNC, navigation, and the reverse camera are not available on the basic V6 coupe
There are currently 10 models available for the 2010 Mustang:
V6 Coupe (MSRP: $21,395)
V6 Premium (MSRP: $24,395)
V6 Convertible (MSRP: $26,395)
GT: (MSRP: $28,395)
V6 Premium Convertible (MSRP: $29,395)
GT Premium (MSRP: $31,395)
GT Convertible (MSRP: $33,395)
GT Premium Convertible (MSRP: $36,395)
GT500 (MSRP: $46,725)
GT500 Convertible (MSRP: $51,725)
The 2010 model year Mustang was released in the spring of 2009.
For 2011, Ford is revising the Mustang's base V6 engine. The new V6 will be a smaller 3.7 L aluminum block engine weighing 40 lb (18 kg) lighter than the outgoing version, and produces a much more powerful 305 hp (227 kW) and 280 lb·ft (380 N·m) of torque. [38] Addtionally for 2011 the Mustang will be revising the V8 powertrain. The current 4.6L 24V V8 will be replaced by a new 5.0L 32V V8. Recently the horsepower figure has been leaked revealing that this new engine will have 412 hp (307 kW). The torque figure is estimated at 390. The engine will feature advance technologies such as TI-VCT; however direct injection will not be part of the package.
